2012 Prefontaine Memorial Run Applications Accepted

Coos Bay, Oregon – July 24, 2012 – Applications are now being accepted for the Prefontaine Memorial Run. The popular road run is slated for Saturday, September 15 at 10:00 a.m. in downtown Coos Bay, Ore., and is held in conjunction with the Bay Area Fun Festival, Coos Bay’s largest annual community celebration.
Those special qualities that made Steve Prefontaine a hero to track fans more than three decades ago are still creating new admirers. Many who were not born when Pre was setting records, or ever saw him compete, are inspired by his enduring example of courage, feisty determination and charisma. Now in its 33rd year, the run got its start when a group of Coos Bay citizens decided it was time that Steve Prefontaine’s hometown did something to honor its favorite son.
Important changes have been made in the conduct of the high school team competition to avoid eligibility issues with the OSAA for participating schools, according to Bob Huggins, executive director of the race. A separate high school-only 5,000 meter cross country race will start at 9:45 a.m., 15 minutes prior to the start of the open Pre 10K Run. In 2011, 14 high school teams participated in the 5,000 meter high school team competiton.
Awards will be given in five-year age groups. First through third place finishers in each division will receive awards. Additionally, a trophy will be presented to the top finishers in the men’s and women’s open and wheelchair divisions. High school team scores and college team scores will also be posted, with the top three teams from each division receiving trophies for both men and women. The awards ceremony will be held at noon at Pirate Stadium adjacent to the finish line area.
The entry fee is $23.00 if made prior to September 11, and $26.00 thereafter. All race entrants will receive a T-shirt especially designed to commemorate the run. On-line registration is encouraged by logging on to the Pre Run website at www.prefontainerun.com. Registration forms are available in Coos Bay at the Visitor Information Center, Farr’s True Value Hardware and Huggins Insurance. Applicants may also call for applications or further information at 541-269-1103.
Contact: Bob Huggins, 541-269-1103